Is she pregnant?

[snake man]

Hey guys i just caught this snake 2 days ago and i think she is very pregnant please take a look and tell me what you think. thank you.

[Invisible Snake]

Yea she does appear to be gravid.

[Dan72]

My money is on yes, but I'm going by the spread I think I'm seeing. You didn't just feed her a horse right....? Yeah, gravid.

[snake man]

I promise I did not feed her a horse lol. So do you guys have any advise such as how long it might be and what i should do. I have been feeding her worms and am getting mice today, she is very defensive and wil go into the strike postion if i am even near which makes it very hard to change her wanter and all of that. Thank you guys.

[Invisible Snake]

Have you ever kept a garter snake before?

[snake man]

yes, I know the basics but never a gravid snake.

[Invisible Snake]

Cool. I myself don't have much experience with gravid garters, but I've read that they give birth around 70-90 days after coppulation, depending on the species. Usually when she is going to give birth she will go off feed for a couple of days and also have a pre birth shed. I've also read that it is beneficial to have a birthing area with damp moss or damp straw mixed with vermiculate.

[guidofatherof5]

The forum has a very good care sheet as keeping garters can be different from keeping other snakes.

In my opinion the biggest concern with babies is making sure they get that first shed done and keeping them hydrated.
My babies get a couple hours in a warm bath to be sure they have completed their shed. I always make sure there is a large shallow water dish in the enclosure to keep the humidity high.
Hope this helps.
Garter Snake Forum - Garter Caresheet

[snake man]

When I cought her she was half way through shedding and due to the time of year I think I should be expecting soon? I need some advice on how to move her while i change her cage for a couple minutes every time i go near her she tries to bite me.

[guidofatherof5]

Support her weight. If you are concerned about getting bit wear gloves. Of course this doesn't mean she won't bite you on the arm.
She's scared and very worried you are going to kill her.
If you have a smaller container you can get her to crawl into the problem will be much less.
Garter bites are not a big deal. Most of the time they just false strike (closed mouth).
I see you are using outside items for substrate. Probably better not to as a host of bugs can be brought in with it.
Paper towels or newspaper can be used. Commercial products like care fresh is available at Walmart and most pet shops.